Austin Currie
Question:384 Mr. Currie asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the steps he will take to control the sale and discharge of fireworks; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22802/01]
Written Answers. - Sale of Fireworks.
Fireworks are deemed to be explosives under the Explosives Act, 1875 and, in accordance with the provisions of the Act, they may only be imported under an important licence granted by my Department. It is a long standing policy that such licences are granted only for the purposes of organised displays conducted by professional and knowledgeable operators. My Department, however, is currently reviewing the legislation relating to explosives, including fireworks. Despite the restrictive policy, fireworks are imported illegally especially leading up to and around Hallowe'en. While the Garda is constantly vigilant in the enforcement of legislative provisions relating to the illegal importation and sale of fireworks, the Garda Commissioner has informed me that specific Garda operations will be mounted approaching and during the Hallowe'en period to prevent and detect these offences. While details of these operations cannot be disclosed for obvious reasons, similar previous operations have resulted in criminal prosecutions and the seizure of very substantial quantities of fireworks. As in previous years, these measures will also include liaising with other services and a public awareness media publicity campaign aimed at parents and children regarding the dangers of handling fireworks.